Houghton Butcher Mayfair Folding Camera 1930 — Vintage 120 Film

The Mayfair is a folding camera using 120 film, produced by Houghton and Butcher circa 1930. The camera has two apertures, one for 'very bright' and the other for 'ordinary light'. The name 'Mayfair' derives from cigarettes of the same name — the camera was given away in return for coupons, making surviving examples a charming piece of British social history as much as photographic history.

Condition

• Cosmetic: A few age-related surface marks consistent with its age. Nothing significant.
• Mechanical: Shutter fires and film advance works correctly. Bellows are intact and in good order.
• Viewfinder: Cloudy — typical for cameras of this era and does not affect shooting.
• Note: Not film tested.
• Completeness: Comes in its original canvas case, which is in good order with a couple of minor marks.

Provenance

• Maker: Houghton & Butcher, London — a leading British camera manufacturer of the early 20th century.
• Date: Circa 1930.
• Format: 120 roll film.
• History: The Mayfair was a promotional camera distributed via cigarette coupons, making it a collectible piece of British commercial and photographic heritage.